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HOW TO USE HANKO
All Hanko Are Not Equal
In Japan we have three types of Hanko each with restrictions on who and how they can be used. For instance, the 'Jitsuin' is an official registered seal, subject to strict specifications regarding its design, size and materials. This seal can only be used by its owner and cannot be delegated to anyone, even a spouse or child for use. Similarly, the 'ginkoin is a registered seal used specifically for banking transactions, and also adheres to strict design and material standards. On the other hand however, the 'mitomein' offers more flexibility, allowing for creative designs. Owners can possess multiple mitomein seals, and opting for a high quality one means it can be passed down to children or grandchildren. Creating a custom-designed Hanko provides a unique avenue for self-expression in a society where such opportunities may be limited.
Using Your Hanko — The Perfect Seal
If you already have a hanko, are you sure you know how to use it correctly? Everyone who has used a Hanko will have encountered some or all of the following issues: stamping your name upside down or at an angle, smudging the seal, getting an uneven print, or even double stamping. Despite its simplicity, using a hanko is an art and takes practice.
Here are some quick tips to help ease the process:
1. Buying Your Hanko
Although cheap Hanko are readily available at numerous stores around Japan, the quality and materials used are more important than you might think. High-quality Hanko reduce the risk of ink bleeding outside the carved lines and are built to last. This means that you will not need to replace them frequently. By opting for a custom, personalized seal, you can specify both the materials and the design, ensuring it meets your aesthetic preferences and durability requirements.
3. Tap that Red Ink
One of the easiest mistakes to make is to press the hanko into the red ink pad too hard, causing the ink to bleed between the lettering. Instead, lightly tap your hanko into the ink pad 2-3 times, creating more even ink distribution. While it's true that many modern ink pads use fast drying ink that minimizes the risk of blotting, it never hurts to have a light touch.
5. Make a Shape When You Stamp
To ensure an evenly distributed stamp — without missing letters that will require you to repeat the action — imagine you’re writing the hiragana character while pressing down. If you’re not too confident about your hiragana skills, adding pressure in a clockwise motion will provide a similar effect.
2.Holding Your Hanko
Holding your Hanko correctly can significantly reduce the chances of accidental blurring or stamping your name upside down. Grip the Hanko between your finger (positioned at 12 o'clock) and your thumb (positioned at 7 o'clock if right handed, and 5 o'clock if left handed), and bend your middle finger to provide support on the opposite side. Always check the bottom of the stamp to ensure the top of your name is aligned with your forefinger. The top end of the Hanko should press against the ball of your hand for added balance. Maintain a firm grip and lower the Hanko slowly to achieve an even, perpendicular imprint.
4. Make Your Mark Using a Mat
A natsuin mat — a seal mat — is a cushioned mat used underneath the paper you’re stamping, and is a worthwhile investment for business use. The mat helps even out the pressure to create a smooth imprint and is a necessity when stamping on uneven desk surfaces. It also has the extra advantage of preventing slippage.
6. Clean the Hanko When You’re Done
It goes without saying that cleaning your hanko after use is a good idea. You’ll avoid getting ink everywhere and it will also make your hanko stay in better shape for longer. Simply wipe with a tissue or soft cloth before returning it to your hanko case.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR HANKO
It’s important to treat your Hanko with care. Consider your registered Hanko as important as your passport and store it safely, ideally under lock and key.
Here's some basic advice for Hanko care:
01.
Keep your Hanko in its case when not in use to prevent any external damage.
02.
Keep it in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
03.
After use, make sure to wipe off any residual ink.
04.
Store your jitsuin Hanko separately from the Hanko registration card or any contracts you have used it with.
05.
Store your ginkoin hanko in a different place from your bank book.
If your hanko is stolen, report it to the police. Also, make sure to cancel it at your local ward or city office. If you’ve lost it, you must still cancel it. In this case, bring a new one along when you go to the ward office so you can register it as soon as you canceled the old one. You must then go to any bank you have used your registered Hanko with to make any necessary changes to what they have on file. If you have signed any longstanding agreements — like a mortgage — you may need to redo the paperwork with the new Hanko.
Signed and Sealed
The Hanko’s role in Japan still holds utmost importance as contracts signed and stamped with a Hanko provide the greatest levels of proof. For example, documents affirmed with both a handwritten signature in addition to a Hanko hold the highest credence in the court of law (followed by handwritten signature alone, digital signature plus hanko, and digital signature alone). As such, use your Hanko wisely when applying your stamp to legal documents such as debt repayments, joint guarantor contracts, etc. Always check the content of a contract carefully and make sure you agree to all the terms before legitimizing with your Hanko. While the Hanko makes for a great souvenir, it also plays an indelible role in everyday Japanese society.
